What Is The Difference Between Honda HR-V LX And EX?

Choosing the right trim level for your new car can be a daunting task. With various features and price points, it's essential to understand the differences between trims to make an informed decision. This article focuses on comparing the Honda HR-V LX and EX trims, providing a detailed breakdown of their key differences to help you determine which model best suits your needs and budget.

The Honda HR-V is a popular subcompact SUV known for its fuel efficiency, spacious interior, and reliability. Within the HR-V lineup, the LX and EX trims offer different levels of features and equipment. Understanding these variations is crucial for prospective buyers.

Detailed Explanations

Price (MSRP): The Manufacturer's Suggested Retail Price (MSRP) is the price recommended by the manufacturer. The LX trim is typically the entry-level model and therefore carries a lower MSRP than the EX trim, which includes more features. This is a crucial factor for budget-conscious buyers.

Engine: Both the HR-V LX and EX are equipped with the same 2.0L Inline-4 engine. This means they both offer the same base level of performance in terms of acceleration and overall power.

Horsepower: The horsepower rating indicates the engine's power output. Both trims produce 158 horsepower, meaning the engine's ability to accelerate and maintain speed is identical.

Torque: Torque measures the engine's rotational force. With 138 lb-ft of torque in both trims, the pulling power of the engine is the same in both models.

Transmission: Both the LX and EX trims come standard with a Continuously Variable Transmission (CVT). This type of transmission provides smooth acceleration and contributes to better fuel efficiency.

Drivetrain: Both trims offer Front-Wheel Drive (FWD) as standard. All-Wheel Drive (AWD) is available as an option for both models, providing enhanced traction in inclement weather conditions. Choosing AWD will add to the overall cost of either trim.

Wheels: The LX features 17-inch silver-painted alloy wheels. The EX upgrades to 17-inch machine-finished alloy wheels with gloss black inserts, offering a more stylish and premium appearance.

Exterior Lighting: Both trims feature LED headlights for improved visibility. The EX trim adds LED fog lights, which enhance visibility in foggy or low-light conditions.

Mirrors: The LX trim comes with body-colored power side mirrors. The EX upgrades to body-colored heated power side mirrors. Heated mirrors are useful in colder climates, as they help to melt ice and snow, improving visibility.

Sunroof: The LX trim does not offer a sunroof. The EX trim includes a one-touch power moonroof with a tilt feature, providing an open-air driving experience.

Smart Entry: Both the LX and EX trims come standard with Smart Entry. This feature allows you to unlock the doors and start the vehicle without physically using the key.

Push Button Start: Both trims also come standard with Push Button Start. This feature allows you to start the vehicle by pressing a button instead of turning a key.

Climate Control: Both trims are equipped with automatic climate control. This system automatically maintains the set temperature inside the cabin.

Seat Trim: Both the LX and EX trims feature cloth seats. The material and design may vary slightly, but the core material is cloth in both cases.

Driver's Seat: Both trims come with manually adjustable driver's seats. This means you will need to adjust the seat position using levers and knobs.

Heated Front Seats: The LX trim does not offer heated front seats. The EX trim includes standard heated front seats, providing added comfort during cold weather.

Infotainment Screen: Both the LX and EX trims come with a 7-inch touchscreen display. This screen serves as the interface for the infotainment system.

Apple CarPlay/Android Auto: Both trims feature Apple CarPlay and Android Auto compatibility. This allows you to connect your smartphone to the infotainment system and access apps, navigation, and music.

Audio System: The LX trim features a 4-speaker audio system. The EX trim upgrades to a 6-speaker audio system, offering improved sound quality.

Honda Sensing Suite: Both trims come standard with the Honda Sensing suite of safety features. This suite includes various driver-assistance technologies.

Adaptive Cruise Control (ACC): Adaptive Cruise Control is a standard feature on both trims. ACC allows the vehicle to automatically adjust its speed to maintain a safe following distance from the vehicle ahead.

Lane Keeping Assist System (LKAS): Lane Keeping Assist System is also a standard feature on both trims. LKAS helps the driver keep the vehicle centered in its lane by providing steering assistance.

Road Departure Mitigation System (RDM): Road Departure Mitigation System is another standard feature. RDM helps prevent the vehicle from unintentionally drifting off the road by providing steering and braking assistance.

Collision Mitigation Braking System (CMBS): Collision Mitigation Braking System is standard on both trims. CMBS helps to reduce the severity of a collision by automatically applying the brakes when a potential collision is detected.

Blind Spot Information System (BSI): The LX trim does not offer a Blind Spot Information System. The EX trim includes a Blind Spot Information System, which alerts the driver when a vehicle is detected in their blind spot.

Rear Cross Traffic Alert: The LX trim also lacks Rear Cross Traffic Alert. The EX trim features Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which warns the driver of approaching vehicles when backing out of a parking space or driveway.

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the biggest difference between the HR-V LX and EX? The biggest differences lie in the additional features offered on the EX, such as heated front seats, a sunroof, an upgraded audio system, and blind spot monitoring.

Is the EX worth the extra cost compared to the LX? Whether the EX is worth the extra cost depends on your individual needs and preferences; if you value the additional comfort, convenience, and safety features, then the EX may be worth it.

Do both trims have Apple CarPlay and Android Auto? Yes, both the LX and EX trims come standard with Apple CarPlay and Android Auto integration.

Are the safety features the same in both trims? No, while both trims include Honda Sensing, the EX adds Blind Spot Information System and Rear Cross Traffic Alert, which are not available on the LX.

Can I get all-wheel drive on both the LX and EX? Yes, all-wheel drive is available as an option on both the LX and EX trims.

Conclusion

In conclusion, the Honda HR-V LX and EX trims offer distinct levels of features and equipment. While both provide the same engine, transmission, and core Honda Sensing safety technologies, the EX trim adds several comfort, convenience, and safety enhancements, such as heated seats, a sunroof, an upgraded audio system, and blind spot monitoring. Determining which trim is right for you depends on your budget and the features you prioritize in your vehicle. Consider your needs and preferences carefully to make an informed decision.